Not long ago, many women never even asked whether it was okay to have sex during their period. Not because the answer was obvious, but because the topic itself was often considered taboo.
Although we now have access to more information than ever before, menstruation and period sex can still feel uncomfortable to discuss. Many long-standing myths continue to influence how people think about intimacy during menstruation.
Why Was Sex During Menstruation Once Considered Forbidden?
The word taboo originates from Polynesian cultures and referred to something that was strictly forbidden. Throughout history, menstruation became one of the earliest and most widespread taboos.
In some cultures and religions, menstruation was—and in some places still is—considered "impure." As a result, menstruating women were sometimes discouraged or forbidden from:
- Preparing or touching food.
- Sleeping next to their partner.
- Having sexual intercourse (although some religious traditions distinguish between intercourse and other forms of intimacy).
Historically, some women were even isolated from their communities during menstruation. However, these practices developed in a very different context—before modern sanitation, clean running water, menstrual products, and an understanding of bacteria and infection.
At that time, poor hygiene conditions could increase the risk of infection, but menstruation itself was never the danger.
When Science Tried to Explain the Myths
In the early twentieth century, some researchers attempted to explain menstrual taboos by suggesting that menstruating women released harmful substances capable of spoiling food or affecting other people.
Modern science has found no evidence to support these claims. Nevertheless, these misconceptions contributed to myths that continue to circulate today.
What Does Modern Medicine Say?
The answer is straightforward.
Menstrual blood is not inherently harmful. Menstruation is a normal biological process.
If there are no medical contraindications and both partners freely consent, having sex during menstruation is generally considered safe.
However, there are several practical considerations:
- The body may feel more sensitive during menstruation.
- The cervix may be slightly more open than at other times in the menstrual cycle.
Because of this, unprotected sex may carry a slightly higher risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Pregnancy is also still possible, although generally less likely than at other times in the cycle.
To reduce risks, consider:
- Using condoms to help reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy.
- Maintaining good intimate hygiene.
- Listening to your body's signals and stopping if you experience discomfort or pain.
These recommendations are not restrictions—they simply support informed, safe decision-making.
Practical Tips for Comfort
If you choose to have sex during your period, comfort is often more important than asking whether it's "allowed."
Before
- Place a towel or protective layer on the bed.
- Wash your hands.
- Use a gentle intimate cleanser if desired.
- Avoid vaginal douching. Only wash the external genital area (the vulva).
- Have condoms or other contraception available if needed.
After
- Urinate after intercourse.
- Gently wash the vulva using mild products.
- Change into clean underwear. For additional comfort and protection, consider breathable GENIAL Period Underwear.
Most importantly, there should never be pressure—from a partner or from yourself. You can stop at any time if something feels uncomfortable, painful, or simply doesn't feel right.
What About Endometriosis?
Some scientific discussions have explored the theory of retrograde menstruation, in which some menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity.
While this mechanism has been proposed as one possible factor in endometriosis, it's important to understand that:
- It has not been proven to be the sole cause of endometriosis.
- It does not occur in the same way for everyone.
- Research into the causes of endometriosis is ongoing.
The Bottom Line
Sex during your period is not medically prohibited for most people if there are no individual medical concerns and both partners consent.
At the same time, it is never something anyone should feel obligated to do.
Today, we have far more knowledge about menstrual health than previous generations. That knowledge allows each person to make informed choices based on their own comfort, health, and preferences.
This article was medically reviewed by obstetrician-gynecologist Prof. Dr. Kristina Jarienė.
